Growing Confidence and Connection at Progress Fostering’s Saturday Group

For many children and young people in foster care, moments of shared activity can become powerful opportunities for connection, confidence and self-expression. That spirit was at the heart of a recent Saturday group hosted by the outstanding Progress Fostering Service. 

Led by fostering team member Shannon, the session brought together several of the young people supported by the service for a relaxed and creative day designed to explore feelings about home life, relationships and independence. 

The group began with conversations about what “home” means to them and who they feel comfortable speaking to when they are having a difficult day. What emerged was a reassuring picture of support and belonging. Many of the children spoke warmly about their foster homes, sharing that their carers are the people they turn to when they feel low or need someone to talk to. 

Alongside these conversations, the group also focused on building independence in fun and practical ways. One of the highlights of the day was pizza-making, where the young people took turns preparing their own creations. From sharing equipment to helping one another with toppings, the activity encouraged teamwork and cooperation while giving each child the chance to make something uniquely their own. 

After lunch, the group moved outdoors to enjoy the spring weather in the garden. The children spent time making daisy chains and preparing the planter box for the next group session, when they will return to plant flowers and plants together. The activity offered a chance to connect with nature while working collaboratively on something that will grow over time. 

The session also provided space for the children to share personal moments from their lives. Some spoke about how they had recently celebrated Eid al‑Fitr, describing the joy of spending time with their foster families and marking the occasion together. 

For the fostering team, hearing these reflections is always meaningful. Activities like the Saturday group help create safe spaces where young people can talk openly, build friendships and develop new skills while simply enjoying being children. 

With planting planned for the next gathering, the group is already looking forward to the next opportunity to learn, create and grow together.